B.C. Confirms Nearly All Social Assistance Cheques Delivered Despite Postal Strike

British Columbia’s Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction has announced that nearly all social assistance payments for November were delivered despite disruptions caused by the ongoing Canada Post strike.

In a statement issued Tuesday, Minister Sheila Malcolmson said 98% of the ministry’s payments were distributed by Nov. 30. Most payments—85%—were processed electronically via direct deposit, while others were mailed or sent to ministry offices for pickup.

The ministry acknowledged challenges in distributing hard-copy cheques during the strike but emphasized that contingency measures reduced delays. As of Nov. 22, 40% of mailed cheques remained undelivered, but by the end of the month, that figure had dropped to 10%.

“Only two percent of payments remain unclaimed, which aligns with the usual monthly figures,” the ministry said, adding that efforts are ongoing to connect with clients to deliver the remaining cheques.

Preparing for December Payments

The next social assistance payment date is Dec. 18, a critical time due to the holiday season. Speaking to CBC's On The Coast, B.C. Ombudsperson Jay Chalke confirmed his office is investigating the November distribution issues to ensure lessons are applied this month.

“We’re at the beginning stages of our investigation,” Chalke said. “It’s important for people to have confidence that a review will take place and that a public report will follow.”

The ministry has reiterated its preparedness for the upcoming payments. During the postal strike, mailed cheques are redirected to ministry offices for pickup. For recipients unable to pick up their cheques, alternatives such as courier delivery or direct delivery by ministry staff are offered.

Postal Strike Impact

The Canada Post strike, involving over 55,000 postal workers, is nearing its fourth week. On Wednesday, Canada Post claimed the union’s latest demands would cost over $3 billion over four years and are "unsustainable."

The Canadian Union of Postal Workers responded, outlining revised proposals including reduced wage increases, cost-of-living adjustments, and enhanced job security measures, which they say aim to bridge the gap in negotiations.

While the dispute continues, the B.C. government remains focused on ensuring social assistance recipients experience minimal disruption. With contingency plans in place, the province is working to prevent delays in December’s payments, even if the strike extends into the new year.